Study Guide

Learning outcomes

Proficiency level: B2

Students are able to
- communicate clearly and effectively in different generic and field-specific work place situations both orally and in writing
- find, evaluate and use information effectively
- function collaboratively in international working environments.

Implementation and methods of teaching

Only for LUT VÄYLÄ and open university students

Online course.

The focus is on learning through individual guided work and active participation in online meetings and other activities, which aim to simulate the communication of business professionals. In addition to reading and listening to authentic business communication materials, students will also participate in online meetings and complete written and oral assignments.

The following equipment is needed to participate in the course: a computer, a web camera, a headset.

Timing and attendance

100% online course.
Periods 3 and 4 of the spring term 2022.
All assignments need to be submitted before their designated deadlines.
During the course a student is expected to participate in 4 online meetings. The absence cannot be covered by any other assignment and will impact the final grade.

Learning material and recommended literature

All course materials are provided via Moodle.
Authentic articles, videos, podcasts are used as materials for the course.

Learning environment

Moodle.
The online lessons are held in Zoom.

Student time use and work load

4 ECTS course, which means about 108 hours of student's work.
Student's workload consists of studying theory, watching video materials, completing 4 assignments for teacher's evaluation; participating in 4 online lessons; completing 4 Moodle tests; competing interactive exercises in Moodle.
Online lessons are held during weeks 6, 10, 12 and 13. Each online lesson has two time options: the evening time and the day time, a student can choose the one that fits his/ her schedule.
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Contents

- managing job application processes (CV, video application, job interview);
- understanding the key terminology and concepts of the business field: the topics include working globally (cross-cultural collaboration in business); the world of business (entrepreneur, company, bank); professional meetings (communication with employees, negotiations); activities include participating in the meetings, discussions, problem-solving, information presentation);
- managing in written and oral communication situations required in professional studies and in the work-life: correct/appropriate use of language (grammar, formal vs. informal style)
- recognizing and applying the different sources and tools to help students improve their English skills: critical use of dictionaries and other resources

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

The course is taught at a B2 level according to the Common European Framework.

Assessment criteria

Continuous evaluation on the scale 5 - 0.

Assessment scale

1-5

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student can speak satisfactorily. Interaction is occasional. Speech lacks structuring, logic and cohesion almost totally. Linguistic performance (speech, pronunciation and intonation) is quite hesitant, pauses are rather long and pronunciation mistakes sometimes disturb the message. The student uses only a few basic structures and makes mistakes.

Written communication consists mostly of simple expressions and there are plentiful mistakes. The language is clumsy, but the message is delivered. Much of the text lacks logic and cohesive elements. The text is not in keeping with the genre- and/or style-specific conventions. The topic is handled briefly and one-sidedly. There are considerable flaws in meeting the task requirements

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student can speak well and interacts with the speaking partner/audience. The student knows how to use ways of nonverbal communication. Speech is easy to follow but lacks cohesion in places. Linguistic performance (speech, pronunciation and intonation) is fluent and clear but short pauses, hesitations and pronunciation mistakes may occur.

Written communication is quite fluent, clear and mostly correct. The structures and professional vocabulary are adequate to deliver the message. The text has a reasonably logical structure. The text is cohesive but minor flaws occur. Minor mistakes occur concerning the genre and/or style. The topic is handled in the usual way, meeting the task requirements

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student can speak extremely well. Interaction is very skillful, and nonverbal communication effectively supports the speech. Speech is target-oriented, very consistent, to the point and logical. Transitions are very smooth. Linguistic performance (speech, pronunciation and intonation) is fluent, clear and accurate, and speech tempo is normal.

Written communication is very fluent and versatile. The student uses varied structures and extensive professional vocabulary, but makes occasional mistakes in the most advanced structures. The text has a very clear and logical structure. The text is cohesive and transitions are smooth. The student can deliver the message effortlessly in the appropriate, genre-specific style. The handling of the topic is diverse and skillful, meeting all the task requirements